The Brit, who played Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the TV series, said: “Two years ago, in Los Angeles, I was examined by a doctor and given a note which gave me legal permission to purchase, from a registered outlet, cannabis-based products, which I was advised might help the ortho-arthritis in both my hands.”

“This, it would seem, is a genetically-based condition. My mother had badly distorted and painful hands. I purchased an ointment, spray and edibles. The ointment, while providing some relief from the discomfort, was too greasy to use during daytime and so I only use it at night. It helps with sleep as the pain was reduced.”

“The spray, however, is much more usable and I spray my fingers and particularly my thumb joints several times a day. The spray very quickly evaporates and leaves my hands quite dry, though with a slight burning or tingling sensation, which is not unpleasant.”

“I believe that the ointment and spray have significantly reduced the stiffness and pain in my hands. I can make fists, which was not the case before I began this treatment.”

“I have had no negative side effects from this treatment and the alternative would have been to continue taking NSAID’s, Advil, Aleve and Naproxen, which are known to be harsh on the liver and to cause acid reflux.”

“As a result of this experience, I enthusiastically support the Oxford University Cannabis Research Plan. I believe this program of research might result in benefits for people like myself as well as millions of others.”

“I spray my fingers and particularly my thumb joints several times a day. It very quickly evaporates.”

He added: “I believe that the ointment and spray have significantly reduced the stiffness and pain in my hands. I can make fists, which was not the case before.”